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Third Visit of the Rev. W. 
Hughes, Colwyn Bay, to 
the West Coast of Africa, 



Brief Account of the 
Cameroons, the Native 
Hymn and Tune Book, 
and the Native Churches 
of that Land, with 
Correspondence. 



1917 



HUGHES & SON, PRINTERS, WREXHAM, N.W. 



INDEX. 



Page. 



The Cameroons 3 

•Correspondence between Rev. W. Hughes and Rev. Alfred Dibundu, re 

the Cameroons, Mr. Hughes's visit there, Hymn-book, Library, &c. 5 

Address presented to Rev. W. Hughes by friends at Colwyn Bay before 

his departure 15 

Photos of returned Native Ministers, Medical Students, Native Confer- 
ence, Chapels and Congregations 20 

'Contributions, etc 33 



THE NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF THE PASTORS, MINISTERS, 
AND TEACHERS OF THE NATIVE BAPTIST CHURCHES 
AT CAMEROONS :— 

British Missionery — Rev. W. Hughes, of Colwyn Bay. 

Native Pastoes and Preachers : 
Inspector — Pastor Jobo Dido, Nazareth, Dido Town. 
Director — Pastor Alfred Dibundu, Bethel, Akwa Town. 
Rev. Joseph Nsange, Bethanie, Akwa Town. 
Rev. T. B. Ndedi, Bonewonda, Akwa Town. 

In charge of Mission — Pastor Lotin Same, Ebenezer, Akwa Town. 

Preacher — John N. Ekwe, Hope, Belltown. 

Preacher — E. Belle, Hickory Town, Jabale. 

Teacher — M. Koffi, Jebale. 

1 -eacher — F. Nuanga, Bonendale. 

OUT STATIONS, &c. 

Bomono, Babenza, Yasem, Bonabeyike, Boko, Mongo. 

Victoria, Ambos Bay. 
Native Pastor — Rev. Joseph Burnley. 
Native Preacher — Mr. James Kofele. 

Secretary in England — T. A. Tucker, Esq., Seaville, Colwyn Bay, 
North Wales. 

Treasurer — Azariah Jones, Esq., " Gwylfa," Erskine Road, Colwyn Bay, 
to whom all Contributions for the Mission should be sent. 

Contributions also may be sent direct to — 
Rev. W. HUGHES, 

Native Mission House, 
Duala, 

CAMEROONS, 

W. Africa. 

These must be sent in Bank or Treasury Notes and letters registered. 



THE CAMEROONS. 



Pastor Alfred Bibundtj 

[ a very successful worker at the Cameroon?, and one of the first 
Students of the African Institute). 
He is the one who writes on behalf of the Churches. 







Mr. James Kofele, 

Native Preacher, 
of the first Students of the 
African Institute. 



Pastor Joseph Burnley, 

Victoria, Ambas Bay, Cameroons, 
an old Student of the African Institute. 
A very successful worker for Christ. 



THE CAMEROONS, 



A German Colony, recently conquered by the British and French Troops. 



HIS place stands between the Niger and the Congo 
rivers, on the West coast of Africa. 

The following letters will give information 
with regard to it and the mission work there. 
A brief history of it may be of interest to you. 

This colony was taken by the Germans 
by 'force early in 1885 — thirty-one years ago — 
and held by them until the present war, when most of them were 
made prisoners by the British and French ; the rest fled, and were 
interned at the Spanish possession — the Island of Fernando Po. 
not far from the mainland. Before the Germans took the Cameroons, 
the British had done much in elevating the people. Both mission- 
aries and traders had been there for about 50 years. 

One Missionary Society from this country spent no less than 
£100.000 in improving the condition of the people, and mission 
stations were established in many parts of the district. A large 
number of the natives spoke the English language, and, by right, 
this part of Africa should have been taken by the British 
Government. 

However, this was not the case, and the Germans took possess- 
ion of it at the time mentioned, entirely against the will of the 
natives. 

On account of the arrogance and tyranny of the new govern- 
ment, all the white missionaries were transferred to other parts 
of Africa, and the poor natives were left entirely in the hands 
of the Germans. 

Some German missionaries entered the field, but their ways 
were as objectionable to the natives as those of the Government 
officials. The result was that the natives preferred to build their 
own churches and superintend their own schools in every part 
of the Colon}^, quite separate from them, though the original chapels 
and schools were in the possession of the Germans. 

In order to assist these natives to develope their own work, 
the African Institute at Colwyn Bay in those days accepted, over 
20 years ago. two sons of the Rev. Joshua Dibundu, native 
minister — Alfred and Samuel, of Akwa Town ; also Joseph Burnley 
and James Kofele, from Victoria, Ambas Bay (another part of the 
Cameroons). 

These were for some years under training in this county, 
and returned to labour ultimately amongst their own countrymen. 

3 




( 4 ) 

Samuel Dibundu died early on his return, but Alfred, his elder 
brother, with Joseph and Kofele, have been ever since faithful 
ministers of Christ in that land. Owing to their superior educa- 
tion they have been leaders of their people for that long period, 
and that in spite of the German tyranny and oppression. 

We venture to state that there would be hardly any Christians 
in the Cameroons at the present time but for the education and 
faithfulness of these men. 

The result is there are numerous churches, with about 2,000 
members and about 7,000 adherents in existence, scattered through- 
out the Colony. Also many schools were established by them, 
but naturally the teachers and preachers have only very elementary 
knowledge as they were forced by the Government not to teach 
English, and had, throughout, to learn the German language under 
unpleasant rules. 

However, they have held on to their faith through all their 
difficulties, trials and poverty. Their great need at the present 
time is sympathy and help from this country. 

It will be seen from the correspondence that we purpose 
having a library for the use of the native preachers, and, if it is 
the Lord's will, it would be my pleasure to gather together these 
preachers from all the districts once every week, at headquarters— 
Akwa Town — for Biblical instruction and preparation for each 
Sabbath. 

This they require very much, with better trained teachers for 
their schools. Without knowledge it is impossible for the work 
to continue and prosper, especially after the terrible treatment 
they have received, as will be seen in Alfred's letters, from the 
hands of the Germans. People in this country, before this war, 
could not conceive of their doings ; but most of their barbarous 
ways are now known to us all. 

These facts should convince every Britisher that the Germans, 
for the sake of humanity, should not receive back one of the colonies 
won from them through the blood of the sons of the British Empire, 
and that of our faithful Allies — the French — during this war. Also, 
in our opinion, it would be well that the Cameroons, above all other 
colonies, should be British in the future, because many of the 
people who were there before the Germans took possession knew 
the English language, and always had an ardent desire to be 
governed by us. 

We have no objection to our brave and faithful friends, the 
French ; but it would be very hard upon the poor natives of the 
Cameroons to commence again to learn French and teach it at their 
schools, whilst a great many of them know English already. 

It would also be a great pity to divide the nation of this part, 
say, by adding half to the Niger Colony and the other half to the 
French territory adjoining the Congo, as the Provisional Govern- 
ment, we understand, has already done. 



( 5 ) 

All of us can see that it is most unpleasant to divide between 
two governments a nation who speak the same language, and 
are used to the same customs. 

We appeal to all our friends to bring this matter before the 
Cabinet and our Parliament, seeking their full consideration of the 
matter, and of the people in Duala Land (Cameroons), who have 
already suffered so severely and unmercifully from a German rule. 



African Institute, 

Colwyn Bay, North Wales, 
Rev. Alfred Dibundu, March 23rd, 1916. 

Native Minister, 
Akwa Town, 

Cameroons, W. Africa. 
My dear Alfred, 

I have been thinking for some time of writing you. as I have 
you, and the work at Cameroons, still at heart. 

I have watched the proceedings of the war there, and I know 
now that the Germans have been cleared out of the colony. 

I consider this a great blessing to all the natives, and I do hope 
it will be under the control of the English or French in the future. 
By right it should be an English colony. 

You know how interested I am in your native churches, and 
how the natives should be encouraged to develop their own work 
in serving their God. 

Now, I have a proposal to make. I should very much like 
to come there to assist you — not in any way to govern you, or 
to interfere with the native ministers, but to encourage you in 
the Lord's work. 

I am of the impression that I could do very much for you 
with the new Government, when it comes into force. As you 
know, a white man can plead, with a white man better than anyone 
else, in the same way as a black man can influence his fellow country- 
men better than any stranger. 

I have still the Cameroon hymn-book blocks, as well as all 
other blocks that the Institute had. and this book we could print 
on account of these blocks, very much cheaper. 

I have also my books in the library, which you saw when you 
were here. These I would like to give for the use of the native 
preachers in the Cameroons and Victoria. 

I am writing a similar letter to the Rev. Joseph Burnley, asking 
him to confer with you immediately about my proposals, so that 
you may let me know about July or August next. 

I am living still at the Institute, but can come there in October 
or November, if you are able to agree with my terms. 



( 6 ) 

I cannot start from here unless you, as churches together, 
can send me £30 for my passage, and £20 for the freight of the 
books, because they are heavy and numerous. 

You will understand that this sum is simply for that purpose, 
as the books themselves you shall have free, with the bookcase, 
which would make a standing library for the district. 

I would also require £30 a year from your churches as contribu- 
tion for maintenance daring my stay there, as well as native food. 
:ike your mother provided for me when I was there 23 years ago ; 
also a small wooden house to dwell in. All the remainder I would 
get from home, and I would do my utmost to influence my friends 
from this country to help the Native Mission. 

You know I have had trials and oppositions, as well as the 
native students in this country ; but the Lord has been good 
to us, and my friends are still very faithful. 

T hope these are plain proposals put before you. 

I shall be glad if you will confer with Joseph, and all the native 
churches, over the matter, and that immediately before the new 
government is set up, so that I may be there in time to plead for you. 

Please let me have your reply as soon as possible. 

With kindest regards, 

Yours very faithfully, 

W. HUGHES. 



Duala, 

Cameroons, West Africa, 

10th July, 1916. 

Dear Mr. Hughes, 

Your letter of late reached me, and was welcomed heartily. 

The native conference met twice for consideration, and I am 
directed to respond to you as follows : — 

That the native churches do appreciate your kind ideas, and 
suggestions, and do heartily accept your offer to minister amongst 
the Duala people and to help the native churches. 

But. as the war is still raging and the future yet uncertain, 
they are afraid and hesitate to arrive at any definite conclusion, 
and to state their acceptance of your worthy offer. They would 
deem it wise and advisable to wait till the war is over. 

But, if you are quite certain that the Germans are not coming 
back to Cameroons for good, then you could acquaint us with 
reliable information to that effect. 

Of course, our daily and sincere prayers to God are that our 
colony be ruled either by the English or French Government, 
whenever the war may end — but never the Germans again. 

We have suffered greatly by this terrible war out here. The 
Germans, who ought to have been our supporters and protectors 
proved to be our deadly enemies : hundreds of natives were 



( 7 ) 

massacred, many villages burnt clown, properties were looted, 
and many starved to death. 

The English and the French were our unexpected protectors 
and supporters. 

The conquest of Cameroons by the Allied forces under General 
Dobill (Brit.) and General Aymerich (Fr.) is a great blessing to 
the natives. 

As most of my books and properties were stolen and looted, 
my certificate as late stud€ht of your Institution and minister 
of the Gospel is also loote^t and I do beg of you to kindly send me 
another, because it i^very much better at this time to have a 
certificate of one's profession. 

Please write soon, as my people wish to know definitely if 
the Germans are not coming back. 

With all good wishes to you. 

I am. dear Mr. Hughes, 

Your former student, devoted and loving. 
ALFRED DIBUXDU. Pastor. 



African Institute, 

Colwyn Bay, Xorth Wales. 
The Rev. Alfred Dibundu. August 28th. 1916. 

Akwa Town. 

Cameroons. West Africa. 
My dear Alfred, 

Your kind letter of July 10th reached me safely some days 

ago. 

I am so pleased to hear from you and to know that you are 
still working together for Christ in Duala-land, though your trials, 
on account of the Germans, have been many. 

I note what you say respecting your two Conferences, and 
am pleased to understand that you will be glad to see me, and 
receive me to co-operate with you in the service of the Lord, when 
you are sure that the Germans will not return to oppress you. I 
am sure the native ministers, preachers, and churches have been 
very brave and faithful in pulling through all your difficulties 
and troubles. 

It is indeed a great pity that you have been plundered and 
treated by them so unmercifully. 

I pray with you all that the British and French Governments 
will never give back the Cameroons to the Germans, or any other 
colony taken from them during this war through the blood of the, 
sons of both countries. 

The cruelties of the German Huns exhibited is sufficient proof 
to the whole world that they are utterly unworthy to rule any 
colony. Nothing but failure can be the result of such government 
of oppression and barbarism. 



( 8 ) 

As you know, they have always used the iron fist in the- 
Cameroons, forgetting the great rule and the teaching of the Bible— 
that man is greater than the Sabbath, even greater than his country.. 

Therefore, no country is of any value unless the natives are 
educated and uplifted. It is by this method the colonies are made 
useful and of benefit, both to the governors and those governed. 
It is by this rule that England has been always so successful in the 
colonies ; also respected and loved by their people. 

I do hope our Government can convince our brave and true 
friends, the French people, that the Cameroons, on account of 
what was done there by the British in the past, should be under 
our rule. 

You ask me whether I can give you a definite reply to this 
effect. This is impossible until the war is over, and until the final 
settlement comes between England and France with regard to 
the German colonies which they have won together. 

I can assure you of this, that common sense and the voice 
of all reasonable people in this country will say : Never, never shall 
the Cameroons or the others be given back to such barbarous 
rulers, if for nothing but for the sake of the people who dwell in 
those colonies. 

This is the feeling of all men of intelligence in this country. 

Therefore, you can be pretty sure that you will never see the 
Germans back at the Cameroons, and be again oppressed by them. 
I think yon should — Native King and people — make an appeal to 
the English Parliament, asking them to allow you to be under 
their rule in the future, because so much was done by this country 
in the Cameroons before the Germans ever took possession of it, 
and so many of you still know the English language. It would be 
a burdensome task upon you to begin anew to speak and teach 
French. 

It is very good of you to accept my offer to assist you, and 
receive me as your brother once more in your country. 

Tell your native churches that I appreciate your welcome 
very much, and will do my utmost to create a good feeling between 
you and the Government, whether it be French or English, and to 
get you every freedom possible to carry on the work of Christ and 
to advance your daily and Sabbath schools. 

You know of the help I received from the late Sir H. M. Stanley 
and Sir Francis de Winton, when they were Governors of the Congo 
Free State at its inception, from 1882 to 1885, and of the great 
assistance given me by the late Sir Claude McDonald, Governor of 
Southern Nigeria, when I founded the mission at Buguma. New 
Calabar, in 1893, where, by now, there are branch churches in all 
parts, and the members as numerous as yours in the Cameroons. 

I feel that I could do much for the native preachers by means 
of ray library. I also trust that ray friends in this country will 
assist me to bring you about 3,000 copies of the native hymn and 
tune book, which I published for you about 20 years ago. 



( 9 ) 

I know your need of this, for the first lot must have been, 
owing to your climate, entirely worn out. 

You wrote me some years ago concerning the urgency of this, 
and. the only reason I did not send you 3.000 copies is the want of 
funds. You may also be aware that I wrote a pamphlet about 
15 years ago entitled. " Guide to Native Ministers and Preachers 
on Xew Testament lines." This has never been published for the 
same reason. 

This would be most useful. T think, not only to you in the 
Cameroons. but also in the Xiger district. Yorubaland. Gold Coast, 
and Sierra Leone Colonies. 

Please let me hear from you. and tell me when you expect 
me to start from here. I think I could do some good with you 
before the war is over, and be on the spot when the new Govern- 
ment is established. 

Please convey my kindest regards and best wishes to all the 
native churches. 

May the Lord be with you and bless you. 

With best regards to yourself, 

Yours very faithfully. 

W. HUGHES. 

P.S. — I enclose the certificate which you desire. — W.H. 

♦+ 

Dual a. 

4:tJi November. 1916. 

The Native Churches of Cameroons, 
To the Rev. W. Hughes, 

African Institute. Cohvyn Bay. 

Dear Sir. 

Your kind letter, which is a reply to our last came to hand, 
and the contents well noted and considered. 

The Xative Churches have again met in a conference and 
have unanimously consented to your offer. Enclosed is a cheque 
of £30 (thirty pounds sterling) to be drawn from the firm of R. & W. 
Xing, of Bristol. Mr. Holder, the Agent here, has kindly favoured 
us in transmitting the money to you through his firm at Bristol. 
The £30 is for your passage. The £20 for the freight of the books 
you asked for will be considered and sent later on. because the 
hymns you published for us about twenty years ago have been 
quite exhausted, and we are getting new additional hymns ready to 
be combhied with the old in one book. 

Further, we have to remind you to acquire every possible 
rights from both the British and French Governments for work 
among us and to be furnished with a legal passport from the British 
Government. 



( io ) 



We are expecting a reply to this as soon as possible, informing 
us beforehand of your exact time of leaving England. 

Please let us know whether you can have the hymns added 
and combined in one book so that we can send you the manuscripts 
in time. 

With due Christian regards and love, we remain to be, 
Yours in the Master's service, 

ALFRED DIBUNDU. 

P. Native Baptist Churches. 



Wth December, 1916. 

To the Rev. Alfred Dibundu, 

Native Baptist Minister, 

Akwa Town, Cameroons, W.A. 

My dear Alfred, 

Your kind letter of November 4th, with cheque for £30, has 
just come to hand for my passage. 

I am very pleased to find that you and the churches are thus in 
earnest about my coming there. 

I shall be very glad for the additional hymns, if possible, per 
return of post. These I will add at the end of the present book. 
Therefore, please put as the heading of them in continuation of 
the present book from 234 upwards. It will be well to print the 
present book as it is, tunes and hymns, as I have the stereotypes 
of everyone of them. And I hope this will not cost very much, 
though everything is so dear during this war. 

I shall get an estimate from a printer of the book as it is now, 
in a few days, and send it you at once. 

He can give me another estimate of the additional hymns on 
their arrival here. 

I am much obliged for your reference to passport, which I 
shall seek, in accordance with your suggestion. 

I do not think it would be wise for me to start from here, as 
you wish to have the hymn book, until it is ready for me to bring 
with me, so please do not delay a moment in sending the hymns. 

I think it would be well for the library, if possible, to be placed 
in the same building as you intend me to live in. 

I shall be quite satisfied with a small wooden house, as far as I 
am myself concerned, but of course, for the sake of giving some 
prestige to the Mission and the Library, it would be well for you to 
get a house as good as you can afford. Is there no German building 
left that you could rent for the purpose ? 

As it would be well for the Hymn-book to be completed, I 
fear I shall not be able to leave this country, until, say, August or 
September next. It depends of course very much on your speed 
in sending the additional hymns. 



( 11 ) 



Please convey to the Conference and all the Native Churches 
my very best wishes for a very Happy and Prosperous New Year. 
May the Lord be with you all, and bless you abundantly. 

With best regards to yourself, 

Yours very respectfully, 

W. HUGHES. 



March, 1917. 

To Rev. William Hughes, 

African Institute, Colwyn Bay. 

Dear Sir, 

Yours of late came to hand and contents well noted. 

We have met in a conference and have arrived at a conclusion 
that you should come as quickly as possible. The Hymn-books, 
etc., could be reproduced later on, when you are here. 

There are French Catholic and Protestant Missionaries already 
out here, and we fear our position is critical as regards Native 
Churches. We have conferred with the said Protestant Mission- 
aries, and are on good terms with them. We told them about our 
mutual correspondence, and that you were coming out here soon 
to assist us. 

As it will take a long time to get the manuscripts ready, and 
that your immediate presence among us will do a great deal of good 
to our Native Churches, both spiritual and material, and that it 
will stimulate our members to subscribe liberally for any emergency, 
we deem it advisable for you to come, and books, etc., will have to 
follow after. 

We have hired a good house for you. 

With Christian regards and love, 

We are yours in the Lord, 

ALFRED DIBUNDU, 

Pro. Native Baptist Churches. 

■ 

8th May, 1917. 

Rev. Alfred Dibundu, 
Native Pastor, 

Cameroons, W. Africa. 

My dear Alfred, 

Your very kind letter reached me safely this morning, and I 
hasten to reply at once. 

I cannot tell you how anxious I have been waiting a reply 
from you for over a month, and to receive from you the additional 



( 12 ) 



hymns of the Cameroon Hymn and Tune Book. A fortnight ago, 
tired of waiting, I placed the book in the hands of the printers, 
and trusting that you would send me without much delay the 
additional hymns. 

I am very sorry indeed for the delay, and that you have altered 
your minds with regard to these matters. 

I am also very sorry to hear of the urgency for me to come 
there, and that you have these other Missionaries coming on the 
spot, who may disturb matters. Under the circumstances, I do 
not know exactly what is best to do. 

The Hymn and Tune Book will be ready by the printers by the 
end of August. Therefore, please send the additional hymns at 
once, otherwise the printers will complete the books without them, 
and I shall try to get them to print the additional hymns separately, 
without cover, and to follow later on. 

I am truly sorry for these difficulties, which have crept up, 
owing mostly to the delay and distance between us. 

I am most anxious to come there to help you. 

I have put on the cover of the book kw Price 2/-," which will 
bring you some money for the Mission as soon as I arrive with 
them. 

Please convey to the Native Conference and all the Native 
Churches my most sincere Christian love and regards. 

Yours very faithfully, 

W. HUGHES. 



. — » 

J line 1st, 1917. 

Rev. Alfred Dibundu, 
Native Pastor, 

Akwa Town, Cameroons. 
My dear Alfred, 

I am now busy packing my books, which I will forward about 
the end of this month. Please take care of these on their arrival, 
and arrange shelves to place them in a convenient place in t he 
house which you have provided for me. They will reach you? I 
hope, by the beginning of August. 

I shall put the address on each of them, — " Rev. Alfred 
Dibundu, Native Pastor, Akwa Town, Cameroons, W. Africa, via 
Messrs. Elder Dempster & Co., Liverpool." 

The Cameroon Hymn and Tune Book, 2,000 in number, will 
be started by the printers about end of August, and addressed 
in the same way. 

I desire to send the things in different steamers, and sail myself 
in a third, so that the German submarines at any rate, will not get 
everything. 



( 13 ) 



Please convey my most sincere Christian regards and best 
wishes to all Native Christians and accept same yourself. 

May God bless you all. 

Yours very sincerely, 

W. HUGHES. 



Akwa Town, 

Cameroons. 

y 21st July. 1917. 

Rev. William Hughes. 

Dear Sir. 

Yours of May and June just came to hand four days ago. I 
am indeed very, very sorry that my letter did not reach you in time 
before you sent the hymns to the printers. We had thought the 
hymns could be printed later on, after your arrival here. 

However, we have summoned a rather hasty conference to 
meet at the end of this month. You will receive the additional 
hymns by the next mail, so do not let the printers finish their work 
with the hymns without the additionals. 

Your books, etc., will be safely attended to, and properly 
shelved when sent, as mentioned per your last. What about 
freights of your books. &c, are they paid there ? Please let us 
know. Can't you get the £50 there from anybody, so that we can 
send same after your arrival here ? That will prevent all further 
delay on our part. 

If we can get the hymns, say September or so, that will bring a 
good sum of money. 

The printers should wait for the additional hymns. You 
will hear from us definitely about the £50 after the meeting of the 
Conference. 

With Christian regards, 

Yours affectionately, 

ALFRED DIBUNDU. 

++ 

29th August, 1917. 

Rev. Alfred Dibundu, 
Native Pastor, 

Akwa Town, Cameroons, W. Africa. 

My dear Alfred, 

Your kind letter, and another before, of the same nature, of 
July 21st, have come safely to hand, with the list of Ministers, 
Churches, Native Preachers, etc. 



( 14 ) 



I am sorry that you are so late in sending me these particulars, 
and that your additional hymns have not yet come to hand. How- 
ever, I am doing my very best to get matters through, under the 
circumstances. 

It is too late now to include the additional hymns in the hymn 

book, as it will be forwarded, I hope, by the S.S. " " on 

the 12th September. Also, eleven boxes, containing my books, 
addressed to you will be forwarded by that steamer. These have 
already been sent to Messrs. Elder Dempster's, Liverpool. 

The additional hymns will be printed in a separate pamphlet, 
and will be sent to the Cameroons, I expect, after my arrival. 

I enclose you a copy of an address, which is shortly to be 
presented to me by the people of Colwyn Bay and a new copy of 
the hymn book. 

I hope to bring with me the illuminated copy of this address 
framed, which can be seen by the Governors and all others. 

With kindest and Christian regards to you and all the Native 
Churches. 

Yours very faithfully. 

W. HUGHES. 

— . ++_ 

Duala. 

loth August, 1917. 

Dear Mr. Hughes. 

We are sending you the additional hymns. Please kindly 
instruct the printers to be very careful in issuing correct proofs. 

We hope this will reach you in good time. We are not able to 
send £30 extra at present, nor the amount for freight expenses, etc. 

We are sure to collect that amount at sight, if you will 
endeavour to have the hymns sent as quickly as possible, say 
September or October. 

Please urge the printers to print as soon as possible, otherwise 
ours will be late for sale. 

You should be quite sure of your passport entitling you to 
have freedom from the British and French Governments to work 
for God here in Cameroons among the Natives. 

We have already arranged everything for your convenience, 
and are waiting for the arrival of your books, &c. 

If you can get that amount, — £100, — elsewhere, for your 
expenses, we will refund it after sale of the hymn-books. 

We are on very good terms with the Rev. Pastor Allegret, 
who is encouraging us very much with good advices. 

Your presence is very much needed. W T e know you and 
Pastor Allegret will do a lot of good with the Natives and Basler 
Christians of the Cameroons. 

With best Christian regards, 

Your loving brother in the Lord, 

ALFRED R. DIBUNDU. 



( 15 ) 



The following is a copy of an address presented to the Rev. W. 
Hughes by his friends on his departure from Colwyn Bay :— 

ADDRESS 

PRESENTED TO 

REV. WILLIAM HUGHES. 

OF COLWYX BAY. OX HIS 

THIRD DEPARTURE FOR AFRICA. 1917. 





AFTER a residence of 
thirty years among us. 
during which you have 
rendered invaluable services 
to the Town, on Councils. 
Committees, and the National 
Eisteddfod, preaching, lectur- 
ing. &c. in England, Ireland, 
and in the Principality, 
crowned with your mag- 
nificent efforts on behalf of 
Africa. We. the undersigned, 
exceedingly regret your 
departure. 

It is remembered how 
you. in 1882. having received 
College training, proceeded at 
the age of 26 a missionary 
to Congoland, West Africa, 
and was well received by the 
Natives of that country, and 
by the White Governors 
under the Belgian Govern- 
ment, then at its inception, 
namely, Sir H. M. Stanley, 
G.C.B., Hon.M.R.G.S.. Ph.D.. 
fee, and the late Colonel 
Sir Francis de Winton. 
K.C.M.G.. C.B.. &c. 

You remained there 
until 1885. when, your 
health having broken down, you returned to this country with 
two native youths of that land, who were the first students of the 
African Institute, founded at this town by you. and continued its 
course for 23 years, wherein, altogether, 87 students were trained, 
who returned, except a few who died, to evangelise and promote 
Civilization in various parts of that Dark Continent. 




The Rev. W. Hughes with Kinkasa and 
Exkaxza the first two Students of the 
African Institute, on his return to this 
C'ountrv in 1885. 



( IB ) 



Concurrently with this work, you held the pastorates of 
" Calvaria," Colwyn, and of tk Ebenezer," Llanelian, having to 
reside at Colwyn Bay on account of its conveniences via trains from 
Liverpool, and via boats from Llandudno, for the Students to 
arrive, and on account of the mildness of the climate. 

Your first public movement in this neighbourhood was the 
renovation of Llanelian Chapel, in 1887 ; the second to build the 
new " Tabernacle " at Colwyn Bay, which, we understand, involved 
one of the greatest sacrifices of your life, and therein initiated a 
new Church, in two branches, English and Welsh, in 1888. Both 
Churches are now separate and prosperous. 

We are aware that you also founded the English Cause at 
Old Colwyn, which is very prosperous. Five ordained ministers 
now carry on the work then initiated by you. 

At the same time you acted as Local Secretary for the Bible 
Society, during which time contributions to that benevolent work 
were greatly advanced. You also then served as a member of 
the School Board. 

In 1893, you relinquished all these duties, ecclesiastical and 
municipal, again sailing for Africa, in June, the second time. 

Through the generosity of that excellent personage, the late 
Sir Alfred L. Jones, K.C.M.G., of Liverpool, you were taken free 
of charge, and allowed to change ships on the Coast of Africa when- 
ever you wished, this enabled you to visit all ports on that vast 
stretch, including British, French. German, Portugese, and Spanish 
possessions, thereby gaining invaluable knowledge and experience 
in natives' affairs. 

Your success thereby was vastly enhanced, and letters of 
recommendation from Sir H. M. Stanley and Sir Francis de Winton 
(the latter being then Secretary to His Royal Highness the Prince 
of Wales), and other important personages to the respective Govern- 
ors along the coast greatly assisted you. 

In April, 1896, you were presented by President Joseph J. 
Cheeseman, on behalf of the Liberian Republic, with a Diploma 
appointing you a Knight Official of that Republic, an honour 
which is very seldom conferred on any White Man. 

We are also gladdened by the fact that you were instrumental 
in encouraging and confirming the native Christians in that far 
off country. 

Two Thousand copies of the Cameroon Hymn and Tune 
Book (the first of that kind in the language) were despatched on 
your return. The Students trained by you at Colwyn Bay have 
proved themselves leaders on their return. By means of this visit 
you were encouraged of God, and helped by the noblemen already 
referred to, together with the late Sir Claude McDonald, at the time 
Governor of the Niger Delta Protectorate, to found what is now a 
prosperous Mission Centre at Bugama, where the King of that 
country resides, the Chief City of New Calabar, where, before, a 
Missionary had never entered. Reports show this Mission's success 



( n ) 



has exceeded all expectations. Now there are numerous Churches 
in all parts of that land comprising about 2,000 members, together 
with some thousands of adherents. 

On your return from this visit we are reminded of the good 
work done by you here at Colway Bay for many years in training- 
preachers, qualified Medical Students, who are now acting in Africa 
as Medical Missionaries, Schoolmasters, two London B.A.'s, 
Barristers, Lawyers, Printers, Carpenters, Tailors. Blacksmiths, &c, 
who now are engaged in various endeavours to elevate their country- 
men. Your excellent work, " Dark Africa and the Way Out,'" 
expounding a scheme for the uplifting of Africa, will be of permanent 

Serving also on the 
Colwyn Bay and Colwyn 
Urban District Council for 
six years, and for years again 
on its Education Committee 
you largely contributed by 
wise counsels, &c, to the 
rapid development of this 
beautiful town. Your interest 
and unceasing endeavours in 
the formation and erection 
of the building of the Free 
Library, we must not forget, 
when you proved yourself a 
righthand man to the Rev. 
Thomas Parry, J. P., its orig- 
inator. Neither should it be 
omitted to mention that you 
were elected Chairman of the 
Town's Committee of the 
Coronation Festivities of King 
Edward ; and that you were 
General Honorary Secretary 
to the National Eisteddfod of 
Wales held at Colwyn Bay in 
1910. the townspeople gen- 
erally, high and low alike, 
will ever admire your valu- 
able services herein. 

Your numerous articles 
in the w ' Colwyn Bay Times" 
and other papers re the 
Pwllycrochan Woods. Trains, 
the value of land and foot- 
paths of this beautiful district, will long be remembered. No 
one in Colwyn Bay is more respected by the working-men than 
you are, and the poor people feel, that your heart is always in full 
sympathy with them. 



value for generations to come. 




The Rev. W. Hughes on the eve of 
his third visit to West Africa, when 
this address was presented to him 
by his friends. 



( 18 ) 



Now, on the eve of your Third Visit to Africa, we under- 
stand you intend to take with you your private Library, together 
with 2,000 copies (2nd Edition) of the Cameroon Hymn and Tune 
Book, at the express wish of the Natives, who have alread}^ provided 
a house for you, and sent £30 for your passage, in order that you 
should visit them immediately and confirm them generally after 
their ill-treatment by Germans ; to create good understanding 
between them and the New Government now established, to en- 
lighten the Native Ministers, Preachers and Teachers, and foster 
the best feelings possible among the Natives generally. 

Recognising your manifold services, we bid you Adieu ! 
praying that the blessings of Almighty God may yet rest upon you 
in all your undertakings. 

Yours faithfully. 

MINISTERS OF THE GOSPEL 

Thomas Parry, Colwyn Bay (Rev. and J. P., CM. Minister). 
Henry R. Williams, Colwyn Bay (Rev. and Congregational Minister). 
W. Penllyn Jones, Colwyn (Rev. and Congregational Minister). 
Thomas Frimston, Calfaria, Colwyn (Rev. and Baptist Minister). 
J. Griffiths, Colwyn (Rev. and M.A., Vicar). 

F. L. Williams, Colwyn Bay (Rev. and B.A., Church of England). 

Hugh Jones, Colwyn Bay (Rev. and CM. Minister, Secretary British 

and Foreign Sailors' Society for North Wales). 

William Edwards, Conway (Rev., Baptist Minister and retired 
County Councillor). 

George H. Bell, Colwyn Bay (Rev. and Baptist Minister). 

Thos. Lloyd, Colwyn Bay (Rev., Congregational Minister and County 
Alderman). 

Robert Roberts, Colwyn Bay (Rev. and CM. Minister). 

Hugh Hughes, Colwyn (Rev. and Wesleyan Minister). 

Thomas Morris, Ebenezer, Llanelian (Rev. and Baptist Minister). 

W. Ambrose Roberts, Colwyn (Rev. and Congregational Minister). 

H. M. Pugh, Colwyn Bay (Rev. and CM. Minister). 

W. G. Owen (Llifon), Abergele (Rev. and Chaplain of Forces). 

COUNCILLORS, MAGISTRATES, DOCTORS, dec. :— 

David Gamble, Colwyn Bay (Major, J. P., and U.D. Councillor). 
John Jones, Colwyn Bay (J. P. and Chairman of U.D. Council). 
William Horton, Colwyn Bay (J. P. and Ex -Chairman of U.D.C). 
Edward Allen, Colwyn Bay (County and U.D. Councillor). 
Hugh Hughes, Colwyn Bay (Guardian and U.D. Councillor). 
George Clare, Colwyn Bay (U.D. Councillor). 
Ellis Jones, Colwyn (U.D. Councillor). 
T. Lloyd Jones, Colwyn Bay (U.D. Councillor). 



( 19 ) 



James Amphlett, Colwyn Bay (Solicitor, &c). 
Price Morris, Colwyn (Surgeon, &c). 

J. H. Williams, Colwyn Bay (Editor of " North Wales Weekly News "). 
W. Howells-Jones, Colwyn Bay (Editor of " N.W. Pioneer"). 
S. L. Butterworth-Wilks, Colwyn Bay (M.D., B.S., Lond.). 
J. M. Porter, Colwyn Bay (County Councillor and J. P.). 
Jeremiah Williams, Abergele (M.A. and Headmaster County School). 
Azariah Jones, " Gwylfa," Colwyn Bay. 

C. H. Noble, Llandudno (U.D. Councillor). 

Geo. Bevan, Colwyn Bay (J. P. and U.D. Councillor). 

Samuel Jones, Colwyn Bay (Councillor and Vice-Chairman, U.D. 
Council). 

Joseph Dicken, Colwyn Bay (J. P. and U.D. Councillor). 

D. 0. Williams, Colwyn (Guardian, County and U.D. Councillor). 
John Williams, Colwyn Bay (U.D. Councillor). 

E. E. Roberts, Colwyn (U.D. Councillor). 

J. J. Price, Colwyn Bay (U.D. Councillor). 

J. Berth-Jones, Colwyn Bay (J. P. and retired Councillor). 

W. M. Venables -Williams (Medical Officer of Health of U.D.C., 
J. P., D.P.H., &c). 

W. B. Russell, Colwyn Bay (Medical Practitioner, M.B., etc.). 

J. Fred Griffiths, Colwyn Bay (Editor of " N.W. Standard ".). 

William Jones, Colwyn Bay (Surveyor and Engineer, U.D.C, 
A.M.I.C.E.). 

Edward Williams, Abergele (County and U.D. Councillor, J. P.). 
Robert Jones, Colwyn (U.D. Councillor). 
Hugh Davies, Colwyn (U.D., Councillor and Guardian). 
Robert Evans, Colwyn (U.D. Councillor). 

William Jones, Colwyn Bay (Foreman, on behalf of U.D. Council's 
Workmen). 

ote. — The description, degrees, etc., of each of the gentlemen who have signed 
this address are put after his name, between brackets, by its composers] . 



Eh 



His Majesty King Gbdebo, The Alake of Abeokuta. 

who has built the two first Hospitals in Yorubaland for qualified 
Medical Students, Drs. George & Oluwole of the African Institute. 




Dr. Oyejola (George). 

who is in charge of the first Hospital built in Yorubaland by King Gbdebo, 
and who was the first Medical Missionary sent out by the African Institute. 

He qualified with honours in Edinburgh. 




Dr. A. Ladapo Oluwole, M.B., Ch.B., 

who is in charge of the second Hospital built by King Gbdebo in Yorubaland, 
and second Medical Missionary sent out by the African Institute. 

He took his degrees in the University of Liverpool and passed many 

examinations with honours. 



Dr. Ishmael Pratt, l.r.c.s.e., l.f.p., etc., etc. 

Third Medical Missionary of the African Institute, who works in the 
Colony of Sierra Leone, and qualified at Edinburgh and Dublin. 




p D380. 



CONTBIBUTIONS, Etc. 



It is requested that all Contributions 
towards the Cameroon Mission should be 
sent in Bank and Treasury Notes with 
letters registered to — 

Eev. W, Hughes, 

Native Mission House, 

DUALA, 

Cameroons, 

West Africa, 

or in Cheques, &c, to Treasurer in this 
Country — 

Azariah Jones, Esq., 

GwYLFA, 

Erskine Eoad, 

Colwyn Bay, N.W., 

which will be acknowledged by him and the 
Secretary. 



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